Bemidji Symphony Orchestra: 'Testament of Renewal' concert set for Sunday

Bemidji Minnesota P.O. Box 455 56619

The Bemidji Symphony Orchestra will perform the third concert of this season, "Testament of Renewal," at 3 p.m., Sunday, March 6, in the Bemidji High School Auditorium.

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Beverly Everett, musical director of the orchestra, has chosen to feature two young string players, Sarah and Sadie Hamrin, 13- and 10-years-old respectively, in the Mozart "Sinfonia Concertante."

"'The Mozart Sinfonia Concertante' has been one of my favorite pieces for a long time," said Everett. "Every soloist brings to a concerto his or her own special interpretations and expressions, and I believe that these two young siblings combine the spirit of youth with a great maturity in their playing that is beyond their years."

Also included in the program is the "Overture to Don Giovanni," K.527 by Mozart and Antonin Dvorak's "Symphony No. 9 in E minor (New World)." Dvorak's symphony is readily recognizable by classical and non-classical music lovers. This will be the first time that Everett will conduct the piece, which has strong European elements, most notably Dvorak's Bohemian ancestry in addition to being one of the first classical pieces to be composed in this country. Dvorak's sponsor brought him to our shores in 1892 because she believed great music could come from American folk music and tradition.

"I think its beautiful, powerful melodies will showcase the strengths of our orchestra," said Everett during a recent conversation. "Many scholars believe this piece to have been influenced by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem 'Hiawatha' as well as Negro spirituals."

Tickets are $20 for regular admission and $15 for seniors and college students. There is no admission charge for children and students through grade 12. Tickets may be purchased in advance at Lueken's Village Foods North and Brigid's Cross Irish Pub. Tickets will also be available at the door. Attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item or a cash donation for the Bemidji Community Food Shelf.